We use cookies to customise content for your subscription and for analytics.If you continue to browse Lexology, we will assume that you are happy to receive all our cookies. For further information please read our Cookie Policy.

On August 4 2017 the People's Bank of China (PBOC) issued Announcement 209/2017 regarding the establishment of a non-bank payment entities network payment and clearing platform.

Background

The number of non-bank payment business and deposit funds managed by non-bank payment entities has grown rapidly in recent years. Due to relaxed regulations, the non-bank payment market has become relatively disorganised. As they bypass supervision by the central authorities, non-bank payment entities could misuse funds and undertake illegal practices, such as money laundering. The PBOC has therefore decided to enhance its involvement in the online non-bank payment market by requiring that all relevant transactions by non-bank payment entities under its supervision be conducted via the network platform.

Key points

From June 30 2018, all online transactions by non-bank payment entities which involve bank accounts must be conducted via the network platform.

All affected banks and non-bank payment entities must complete the relevant preparation in order to be able to access and transfer their business to the network platform by October 15 2017.

Outlook

The announcement is a major step towards the PBOC's establishment of a centralised and transparent online payment system with unified regulatory requirements for all non-bank payment entities, which should enable the PBOC to control any financial risks that may arise in the market.

This article was first published by the International Law Office, a premium online legal update service for major companies and law firms worldwide. Register for a free subscription.

For further information on this topic please contact Wu Jiejiang at Jingtian & Gongcheng by telephone (+86 10 5809 1000) or email (jjwu@jingtian.com). The Jingtian & Gongcheng website can be accessed at www.jingtian.com.?

Compare jurisdictions:Merger Control

"The problem with the information age is that it leaves one drinking from a firehose. The service succeeds in reducing that torrent to manageable gulps of high value analyses addressing topics of immediacy. "